Kamigamo-jinja Shrine (Kamo-wake-ikazuchi-Jinja)

Kamigamo-jinja Shrine is one of the oldest shrines in Kyoto. Since the ancient times, its connection to the Imperial court is very strong with its Aoi Festival in May, boasting a history of more than 1000 years. During the festival, people dressed in Heian aristocratic costumes walk along with carts, cattle and horses decorated with Aoi leaves, and its magnificent parades are often compared to those in Heian Picture Scrolls, depicting unseen traditional courtyard events around the country. In the precincts, when you pass through the second Torii gate, you will see two sandstands in front of the "Hosodono" hall. These are referred to as " Tatezuna " and represent the Koyama, which is a shinto object of worship. Pine needles standing at the top of the sandstone is a guide directing the gods where to descend. Pine needles have two leaves at the right, three leaves on the left. Three leaves is very rare, and if you are lucky you may see it in the precincts. For a small fee, you can visit the main hall of this national treasure. Kata-yamano Miko shrine, known as the god of marriage, is a popular spot for female visitors. In addition, you can rejuvenate yourself by taking in the natural scenary, such as the Shoukei-en garden, imitating the garden of the late Heian period and small river streams passing through the trees. If you have time, please also visit " Shake-machi Town." A " Shake " is a family that serves the gods. This district of traditional houses is clustered along the eastern side of a torii gate and the Myojin-gawa river.